to Fulton Street — Transit Center,
or r to Cortland Street.
9/11 Ground Zero Tour
A guided walk through the landmarks, history, and hope at Ground Zero
Highlights
- Learn about the events of 9/11 from a New Yorker with firsthand experience of that day.
- Visit the various sites of Ground Zero, from the Survivor Tree to the 9/11 Memorial.
- Discover the symbolism of the large pools filling the footprints of the former Twin Towers.
- Hear stories of hope and heroism during the tragedy and in the days that followed.
I looked out of the apartment window, out into the gorgeous Indian summer day, and saw a stream of firetrucks racing downtown…
- Jon, Ground Zero tour guide
What you’ll do
Join us for a tour of the former World Trade Center in New York City as we remember the tragic events of 9/11.
We’ll start the tour at the Oculus, a symbolic building created in the wake of 9/11. From here, we’ll walk to the m...
Join us for a tour of the former World Trade Center in New York City as we remember the tragic events of 9/11.
We’ll start the tour at the Oculus, a symbolic building created in the wake of 9/11. From here, we’ll walk to the memorial, visiting sites like Liberty Park and the firefighters memorial along the way. Along the way, you’ll hear stories from your guide, a New Yorker who experienced 9/11 firsthand, making the events of that day more personal and meaningful.
At the 9/11 Memorial, pause at “Reflecting Absence,” a man-made waterfall that symbolizes the void left behind by loss. Learn how the names of the nearly 3,000 victims were placed around the waterfall next to their friends, family members, and colleagues.
But there’s more than tragedy here. See where the new Freedom Tower and World Trade Center were built from the ashes of Ground Zero. Learn how the community came together in the wake of the attacks. Be inspired by stories of bravery and heroism during the rescue effort.
Each guide’s experience of that day is unique, and so is each tour. Every tour includes the 9/11 Memorial, but you may also stop at other sites connected to Ground Zero. These include the FDNY Memorial Wall, the Survivor Tree, the Brooks Brothers, and St. Paul’s Chapel, which served as a rescue center in the aftermath of 9/11.
Itinerary
-
Oculus
The wing-shaped transit hub and shopping center that symbolizes renewal at Ground Zero -
FDNY Memorial Wall
Dedicated to the New York firefighters who gave their lives on September 11, 2001 -
Liberty Park
A peaceful elevated greenspace overlooking the 9/11 Memorial -
9/11 Memorial
Featuring large pools built in the footprints of the original Twin Towers
Reviews
Meeting point
We meet inside the Oculus, a mall and transportation hub at Ground Zero. Go to Level C2. Your guide will be wearing an orange hat and standing by the L'Arte del Gelato stand.
Getting here
Nearest Subways
1
2
4
5
A
C
J
Z
Ending point
The guided portion of our tour ends at the 9/11 Memorial (about 4 blocks from the meeting location).
FAQs
Is the tour accessible?
Yes, the tour is accessible for both wheelchairs and strollers.
Is the tour appropriate for children?
Yes, our guided tour of Ground Zero is appropriate for all ages. The subject matter is covered sensitively, and we’ve had many families enjoy our tours over the years. Kids 4-12 can join our tour at a reduced rate.
Does this tour cover the 9/11 Museum or Freedom Tower?
Yes, this tour includes admission to the 9/11 Museum and the One World Observatory at Freedom Tower. Your visits to these attractions are self-guided. We recommend allowing about an hour for Freedom Tower and two hours for the museum, but you may stay as long as you wish at either landmark.
How will I get my tickets for the museum and observatory?
Your tour concierge will give you your tickets for the 9/11 Museum and the One World Observatory when you check in for your tour, so it’s important to arrive early to make sure you don’t miss your tour.
What is the cancellation policy?
We understand plans change. We offer a 100% refund or the option to reschedule up to 24 hours before your tour start time. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t eligible for refunds or rescheduling.
When should I get there?
Plan to show up 15 minutes early. The tour starts promptly, and you may not be able to catch up if you arrive late. When you arrive, just tell the guide your name at check-in. No need to print out anything.
What if it rains?
Our tours run rain or shine. If there’s extreme weather and we have to cancel, you’ll get a full refund.
Are gratuities included?
Tips aren’t included but are always appreciated by our guides. If you think your guide did an outstanding job, a tip is a great way to show that.